Best clothes dryers in Australia 2026

A clothes dryer blows hot air through your wet laundry to remove moisture. Typically used after a washing machine, this takes off the hassle of air drying your favourite clothes, leaving them soft and thoroughly dry in no time.

There are tons of clothes dryers available in the market, which makes picking the best one a bit daunting. When shopping, consider your needs and how frequently you would use the dryer. You should also consider various factors such as user-friendliness, drum size, energy efficiency, load capacity and noise levels.

For this list, we evaluated numerous clothes found in various online retailers, including Bing Lee, Appliances Online and Harvey Norman. We picked models based on customer reviews and ratings. We also chose the units for each category based on key product features.

Read more detail on our methodology below.

Electrolux 7kg Vented Dryer EDV705H3WB

Best overall dryer

• Relatively quiet operation

Cons

• Doesn’t come with a drying rack
• No antivibration feature

Buy now

The Electrolux 7kg Vented Dryer EDV705H3WB is our pick for the best overall clothes dryer you can get online. This model has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and Bing Lee.

This little gem stands out with its Sensor Dry technology, intelligently detecting the moisture level to ensure impeccable drying. No more worrying about damaging delicates or over-drying items. With a range of programs available, it is impressively versatile, catering to every drying need imaginable.

Customers praised the product's ease of use, decent capacity and affordable price tag. The control panel is a breeze to use and the control dial allows for quick and easy cycle selection. Whether it's a heavy load of clothes, delicate fabrics or just a quick refresh, this dryer handles it all effortlessly. What's inside matters too and the durable stainless steel drum is designed to last. Plus, the reverse tumbling action is a bonus, effectively minimising bunching and creasing.

Handy features like the clean filter indicator and the wall mount option with a reversible control panel decal are thoughtful touches, enhancing convenience for everyday use. While it only has a 2-star energy rating, the efficient operation and exceptional performance might make it worth the trade-off.

How do Australians rate Electrolux's clothes dryers?

For clothes dryers, Electrolux was ranked 2nd for value for money, 1st for performance, 1st for ease of use, 1st for cleaning and maintenance and 3rd for product features.

8 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Haier 5kg Vented Dryer HDV50E1

Best cheap dryer

• Suitable for small spaces

Cons

• Only 4 temperature settings
• A bit noisy according to some

Buy now

If you're on a budget, the Haier 5kg Vented Dryer HDV50E1 is worth checking out. Not only is it less than $400, this unit has earned a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online.

The Haier 5kg Vented Dryer HDV50E1 stands tall as an affordable option that doesn't skimp on features. With its 5kg drying capacity and a variety of sensor and timed cycles, it offers unparalleled flexibility to accommodate all drying needs. The different time dry cycles range from 30 to 180 minutes and the sensor dry options – extra, normal and damp – provide precision drying for every load.

The reverse tumble action helps reduce tangling and bunching up of clothes, maintaining the quality of fabrics. Its wall-mountable design, complemented by the supplied brackets and reversible decal, is a winner for those with limited space too. Additionally, the handy electronic diamond dial control makes operation a breeze and the easy-access lint filter ensures the appliance runs efficiently.

Despite these impressive features, the dryer comes with a modest 2-star energy rating, which might not be the most energy-efficient choice for environmentally conscious consumers. Also, with just 4 temperature settings, it may lack the nuanced control offered by some other models.

How do Australians rate Haier's clothes dryers?

93% of surveyed Australians recommend Haier

How Haier compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For clothes dryers, Haier was ranked 1st for value for money, 4th for performance, 6th for ease of use, 1st for cleaning and maintenance and 3rd for product features.

8 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Samsung 9kg Smart AI Heat Pump Dryer

Best premium dryer

• Loads of handy features

Cons

• Some said the drying cycle takes over 3 hours
• Bulky

Buy now

For the best high-end dryer, we recommend the Samsung 9kg Smart AI Heat Pump Dryer, which has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and Harvey Norman.

This machine has it all, from AI-pattern technology that optimises your drying cycles to a Hygiene Care cycle that promises thorough sanitisation. It's a choice built for larger households, ensuring you never have to worry about your clothes being under or over-dried.

Customers rave about its quality build, ease of use and versatility. Offering an impressive 19 pre-programmed settings, this dryer is ready to tackle all your garment-drying needs across all seasons. Whether you're a busy household needing quick solutions or someone who values perfectly fluffy bedsheets, this dryer has got you covered.

However, some users have pointed out that the drying cycle can exceed 3 hours, which could be a bit of a wait. Furthermore, its size might be a little too bulky for some homes. But considering the advanced features and convenience it offers, these minor drawbacks are often overlooked.

How do Australians rate Samsung's clothes dryers?

92% of surveyed Australians recommend Samsung

How Samsung compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For clothes dryers, Samsung was ranked 8th for value for money, 7th for performance, 8th for ease of use, 8th for cleaning and maintenance and 7th for product features.

8 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Westinghouse 4.5kg Vented Clothes Dryer WDV457H3WB (DEAL: $74 off)

Best dryer for small spaces

• User-friendly

Cons

• Only 1 program
• Energy star rating of 1.5

Buy now

With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online, our team has chosen Westinghouse's 4.5kg Vented Clothes Dryer WDV457H3WB as the best option for small spaces.

The Westinghouse 4.5kg Vented Clothes Dryer WDV457H3WB is particularly suited for those tight on space – think small apartments, tiny homes or even RVs. Its easy-to-use rotary dial control proves hassle-free, and the timed drying feature means no more guesswork. Thanks to the included kit, it can also be vented from the front or rear and even wall-mounted.

The dryer's transparent door and child safety lock make it ideal for households with curious small children, ensuring safety and peace of mind. Plus, it comes with a 2-year manufacturer warranty, adding that extra layer of protection for your investment.

But it's worth noting that the Westinghouse dryer only has a 1.5-star rating, suggesting that it may not be the most energy-efficient choice out there. Also, it comes with a single drying program, limiting its versatility.

LG 9kg Heat Pump Dryer with Inverter Control (DEAL: 17% off)

Best dryer for large families

• Easy to use

Cons

• Doesn’t properly dry quilts and duvets according to some
• Not cheap

Buy now

For large families, we picked LG's 9kg Heat Pump Dryer with Inverter Control as the best option. On Harvey Norman, it has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. With a 9kg load capacity and Sensor Dry technology, it makes the clothes drying process hassle-free.

This LG clothes dryer features a wide range of drying cycles, like cotton, duvet, allergy care and mixed fabric to fit your household's needs. It also has ThinQ technology, allowing you to track your energy consumption, troubleshoot issues and control the unit using a smartphone.

Numerous buyers were impressed by the dryer's sleek design, durable build and ease of use. While it's a little more expensive than competitors, it provides optimal drying that ensures your clothes aren't under- or over-dry. It also has an impressive 9-star energy rating, which means it can help minimise running costs. A few users reported that the duvet cycle doesn't effectively dry their duvets and quilts, but this seems to be an isolated issue.

26% off LG Series 9 9kg Heat Pump Dryer with Inverter Control

How do Australians rate LG's clothes dryers?

89% of surveyed Australians recommend LG

How LG compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For clothes dryers, LG was ranked 2nd for value for money, 1st for performance, 1st for ease of use, 1st for cleaning and maintenance and 1st for product features.

8 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Fisher & Paykel 7kg Vented Dryer DE7060G2

Best dryer for the garage

• Great value for money

Cons

• Noisy
• Only 2-star energy rating

Buy now

Our pick for the best dryer for your garage is the Fisher & Paykel 7kg Vented Dryer DE7060G2. On Appliances Online and Bing Lee, it has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The Fisher & Paykel 7kg Vented Dryer DE7060G2 features an impressive auto-sensing technology, ensuring clothes are neither under-dried nor over-dried by accurately monitoring moisture levels. This not only elevates the care given to garments but also boosts energy efficiency.

The ease of loading is another notable feature due to the robust dryer door that opens up to a full 180 degrees, making the chore of laundry a breeze. Plus, the dryer is as flexible as they come. It can comfortably sit on the floor or, thanks to the included wall brackets, it can be mounted on the wall to save space – an excellent feature for a garage set-up.

Lastly, the inclusion of a drying rack adds even more value. It offers the ability to dry items that can't be tumbled, like those damp boots after a rainy day or delicate items that require extra care.

How do Australians rate Fisher & Paykel's clothes dryers?

91% of surveyed Australians recommend Fisher & Paykel

How Fisher & Paykel compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For clothes dryers, Fisher & Paykel was ranked 2nd for value for money, 4th for performance, 3rd for ease of use, 4th for cleaning and maintenance and 3rd for product features.

8 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Electrolux 7kg Vented Dryer EDV705H3WB

Best vented dryer

• Relatively quiet operation

Cons

• Doesn’t come with a drying rack
• No antivibration feature

Buy now

It can be wall-mounted, saving valuable floor space. The buzzer and end-of-cycle beep ensure you never forget a load again. The reverse tumbling technology also helps minimise tangling and wrinkling. The auto cool-down feature enhances safety and the front lint filter makes maintenance a breeze.

However, it's worth noting that this model does not come with a drying rack or an easy invert panel, which might pose slight convenience issues for some users.

How do Australians rate Electrolux's clothes dryers?

For clothes dryers, Electrolux was ranked 2nd for value for money, 1st for performance, 1st for ease of use, 1st for cleaning and maintenance and 3rd for product features.

8 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Beko 9KG Sensor Controlled WiFi Connected Hybrid Heat Pump Dryer with Steam BDPB904HW

Best sensor dryer

• 8-star energy rating

Cons

• There are cheaper options in the market
• A bit bulky

Buy now

We recommend the Beko 9KG Sensor Controlled WiFi Connected Hybrid Heat Pump Dryer with Steam BDPB904HW as the best sensor option. On Appliances Online, it has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

This state-of-the-art appliance utilises RapiDry, a groundbreaking technology that perfectly blends conventional heater and heat pump technology. Opting for quick or energy-efficient drying has never been easier, with the option to dry 5kg of laundry in just an hour.

The IronFinish feature is another innovation worth noting. Thanks to this feature, casual shirts come out ready to wear and even business shirts are less wrinkled, making ironing a breeze. Plus, the heat pump technology uses R290 refrigerant, which is significantly less harmful to the environment than standard refrigerants. It also has an impressive 8-star energy rating to help you reduce running costs.

However, the Beko 9KG Sensor Controlled WiFi Connected Hybrid Heat Pump Dryer isn't flawless. There are a couple of drawbacks worth mentioning. Its high-quality and advanced features come with a heftier price tag compared to other dryers in the market and its bulky design might not be ideal for smaller laundry rooms.

Fisher & Paykel 8kg Series 5 Condensing Dryer

Best condenser dryer

• Suitable for large homes

Cons

• Lint indicator requires frequent cleaning
• Delay timer is only up to 12 hours

Buy now

For the best condenser dryer, the team at Finder selected Fisher & Paykel's 8kg Series 5 Condensing Dryer, which has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and Harvey Norman.

The Fisher & Paykel 8kg Series 5 Condensing Dryer is a top-tier condenser dryer that's loaded with features. Its stainless steel drum ensures durability, while an included drying rack provides space for delicate items. The interior drum light is a neat perk, illuminating the drum and making it easy to grab every last sock.

There is also auto-sensing technology, which pre-empts the risk of over-drying your clothes – this is a real game-changer. Front venting and an easy-access lint filter also contribute to the ease of use. The end-of-cycle signal and delay-start function add to its user-friendliness and luxury feel, too.

However, it does come with a few cons. You might find the lint filter indicator to be somewhat unreliable, needing more regular cleaning than indicated. Also, the delay start only ranges from 5 minutes to 12 hours, which might not be sufficient for everyone's needs.

How do Australians rate Fisher & Paykel's clothes dryers?

91% of surveyed Australians recommend Fisher & Paykel

How Fisher & Paykel compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For clothes dryers, Fisher & Paykel was ranked 2nd for value for money, 4th for performance, 3rd for ease of use, 4th for cleaning and maintenance and 3rd for product features.

8 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Bosch Serie 6 8kg Heat Pump Dryer WTR85T00AU

Best heat pump dryer

• Heaps of features to make clothes drying a breeze

Cons

• Not cheap
• LCD screen may be too complicated for some users

Buy now

The Bosch Serie 6 8kg Heat Pump Dryer WTR85T00AU is our pick for the best heat pump dryer. On Appliances Online, it has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

This beauty features AutoDry technology, a real time and energy saver, automatically halting the drying process once it's done. No more guessing games, no more wasted energy. Meanwhile, the SensitiveDrying system is like a warm hug for your laundry from all sides, ensuring even the most delicate of fabrics are cared for perfectly.

The innovative AntiVibration side walls provide more stability and significantly reduce vibration. Plus, the ActiveAir technology efficiently reuses existing heat throughout the entire drying process, making it a super eco-friendly choice.

Many reviews have been impressed by this model's handy features, including a large LED screen that makes operation a breeze. The large water condensation container is also worth mentioning. It collects water from the drying cycle for those without a connected drain hose.

But it's important to note a few cons. First, the price. It's no secret that Bosch appliances come with a higher price tag and this model is no exception. The premium features might take a toll on your wallet. Secondly, while the large LED display is great, it might be a bit too complicated for those who are not tech-savvy.

26% off Bosch Series 6 Washer Dryer Combo

How do Australians rate Bosch's clothes dryers?

98% of surveyed Australians recommend Bosch

How Bosch compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For clothes dryers, Bosch was ranked 5th for value for money, 1st for performance, 3rd for ease of use, 4th for cleaning and maintenance and 1st for product features.

8 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Asko 10kg Heat Pump Dryer T410HD.W

Best energy-efficient dryer

• Ideal for extra-large families

Cons

• Some found the dryer a little noisy
• Expensive

Buy now

With an impressive 9-star energy rating, we selected the Asko 10kg Heat Pump Dryer T410HD.W as the best energy-efficient clothes dryer. It also has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from Appliances Online customers.

The Asko 10kg Heat Pump Dryer T410HD.W takes energy efficiency to a whole new level. It carries a 10kg load capacity – a perfect fit for extra-large households. Remarkably, it's an environmentally-friendly choice for laundry drying, thanks to the innovative heat pump technology it employs. The system recycles hot air, ensuring every garment is impeccably dry without the need for external ventilation.

The T410HD.W's auto-sensing technology also prevents under-drying or over-drying of clothes. The large door opening is an added bonus for easy loading, while the SensiDry system smartly detects when clothes are perfectly dry, minimising shrinkage and further saving energy. With safety in mind, it features a lockable door and child lock. Plus, with 14 drying programs, it's got every drying requirement covered.

Bosch 10kg/5kg Serie 6 Washer Dryer Combo WNA254U1AU

Best washer dryer combo

• Impressive 4.5-star WELS water rating

Cons

• May not be enough for larger households
• Cold water inlet only

Buy now

We recommend the Bosch 10kg/5kg Serie 6 Washer Dryer Combo WNA254U1AU as the best washer-dryer combo. On Appliances Online and Bing Lee, it has a rating of 4.55 out of 5 stars.

Boasting an impressive energy star rating of 4.5 for washing and a decent 3 for drying, this machine is designed with efficiency in mind. Plus, it only uses 86 litres of water per wash, which is pretty eco-friendly.

It's also armed with a condenser dryer and a quiet yet robust EcoSilence Drive motor. This motor even comes with a whopping 10-year warranty guarantee. You'd be hard-pressed to find that kind of assurance elsewhere.

But the real showstopper is the HygieneCare program. This unique feature pre-treats your laundry with hot air, then proceeds with a low-temperature washing cycle to ensure your clothes are not only spotless but also hygienically clean. Throw in the droplet-shaped VarioSoft drum structure, which allows for both gentle and vigorous washing, and you've got a winner.

There are a couple of downsides to the Bosch 10kg/5kg Serie 6 Washer Dryer Combo. For one, it only accepts a cold water inlet, which might limit its versatility for some users. Also, the 10kg/5kg capacity might not be enough for larger households or those with heavier laundry loads.

43% off Bosch Series 4 605L French Door Fridge

Esatto 7kg Vented Dryer EVD7

Best wall-mounted dryer

• Easy to install

Cons

• End-of-cycle beep can be annoying for some
• There are more energy-efficent options out there

Buy now

For the best wall-mounted option, we picked the Esatto 7kg Vented Dryer EVD7. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online.

The Esatto 7kg Vented Dryer EVD7's design is all about convenience. The electronic controls are straightforward and user-friendly, allowing an effortless selection of settings that best suit every laundry type. The panel is also reversible, a unique touch for households who prefer their dryers wall-mounted.

Talking about lifestyle convenience, the anti-crease mode is pretty handy, making clothes ready to be worn straight out of the dryer. And then there's the safety thermostat heater, auto-power off and error alarm, ensuring a safe and hassle-free drying experience.

However, it's only fair to point out a couple of areas where this model could step up its game. Firstly, it's rated with a 2-star energy rating, which isn't the most energy-efficient in the market. And second, while the end-of-cycle alarm is a handy feature, it could be a bit quieter for those who prefer a serene laundry environment.

Electrolux

Best clothes dryer brand

• Durable build

Cons

• Certain models can be somewhat noisy during operation
• Some options bulky

Buy now

Electrolux just got crowned as Australia's top-rated clothes dryer brand, leaving big names like Bosch, Whirlpool, Simpson and Samsung in the dust. Customers loved the performance, reliability and bang for their buck. The brand scored an impressive recommendation rating of 93%.

Electrolux is a brand you should seriously consider if you're after durability. Not only is it celebrated for its high-quality performance, but it's also renowned for its reliability. Users have found that these dryers consistently deliver on their promise of effective and efficient drying, no matter the load size. The brand's value for money is another reason customers are raving about it.

With Electrolux, you're not just getting a dryer – you're investing in a dependable, cost-effective solution for your laundry needs. Its range of models also means that there's something for everyone, whether you're looking for a basic dryer or a feature-packed model.

Latest deals on clothes dryers online

26% off Bosch Serie 6 10kg/5kg washer dryer combo

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Old price: $1,649
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How did we pick this list?

• Altus
• Ariston
• Artusi
• Asko
• Beko
• Bosch
• Electrolux
• Esatto
• Euro Appliances
• Euromaid
• Fisher & Paykel
• Haier
• Hisense
• Hoover
• LG

• Miele
• Omega
• Rinnai
• Samsung
• Seiki
• Simpson
• Solt
• Speed Queen
• Teka
• Whirlpool

We then narrowed down our choices based on customer ratings and reviews (as of August 2023). We also considered each model's key product features, value for money, energy efficiency, capacity and user-friendliness. When choosing the best cheap option, we looked into dryers below $500. For premium models, we considered models priced above $1,500. We came up with what we believe are the 14 best clothes dryers you can buy right now in Australia.

How to compare clothes dryers

To decide whether your home needs a clothes dryer and which type meets your needs best, you'll need to consider how frequently you'll use the clothes dryer, available laundry space and ventilation facilities, running costs and environmental concerns.

Before deciding which clothes dryer is right for your household, consider the following key features:

Dryer dimensions

Measure your laundry space before purchasing a dryer. You'll need to have about 2.5cm clearance on all sides of the dryer in order for air to circulate properly. Also check you have an additional 15cm of depth so you've got enough room to open the dryer door and account for the dryer vent, wires and hose connections at the back. If you're short on space, consider picking a dryer model that can be stacked on top of your washer.

Drum size

The size of the dryer's drum can significantly affect how efficient your machine is. A bigger drum size will provide faster drying but will also use up more energy. As a rough guide, you should allocate about 1kg for a complete outfit set (top, bottom and underwear). It's recommended that individuals or couples opt for a 3–4kg dryer and from there, add about 1–2kg per additional household member.

Drying settings and cycle programs

Options include extended tumble and steam cycle settings to help get rid of creases, delicate settings that protect fine fabrics of these garments, a sanitation cycle that can help kill harmful bacteria and an eco cycle to reduce the energy used per cycle. Also, look out for a cool air setting if you want to aerate fabrics that have been stored away so that they will smell and feel fresh.

Efficiency

As a clothes dryer uses a lot of energy, you'll want to pick an energy-efficient model to save you money in the long run. Check out the energy star rating of your chosen model and ensure you spin-dry your laundry in the washer before loading it into the dryer to avoid unnecessarily straining your dryer.

Installation

There are various types to choose from depending on the size and layout of your laundry. If you have enough room, opt for a side-by-side configuration which will make it easier to transfer laundry from one machine to the other. To save space, stack your dryer on top of your front-loading washer or consider wall mounting.

Vents and ducts

You'll need to vent your dryer near an open window or via an exhaust fan to avoid moisture build-up and potential mould growth. If this isn't possible, be sure to check whether your model is vent-kit compatible, front-vented or if it can be ducted instead.

Load capacity

It's important to match the size or load capacity of your dryer to your washing machine, as you're likely to want to dump your full load of laundry into your dryer straight after it's been washed.

Noise

Dryers tend to be quite noisy so if you live in an apartment or your dryer is located near sleeping or living areas, you may want to get a tumble dryer with a dampener system that can decrease noise operating levels.

Sensors

Sensor dryers can detect when your laundry has been adequately dried and will automatically turn off the cycle, saving you energy and costs.

Which type of clothes dryer is best for me?

Clothes dryers operate by circulating heated air through your wet laundry to take out moisture. There's a large variety of clothes dryers on the market that offer varying functions, technology, environmental impact and price. While some dryers are more expensive to buy, they can be cheaper to run and more gentle on your clothes.

Read on to understand the differences between the 4 main types of clothes dryers so you can make an informed decision about which type suits your needs the best.

• Vented dryer. A vented clothes dryer is the simplest and most common form of dryer. These are typically cheaper to buy but more expensive to run. All clothes dryers need to release the moisture that's taken from your clothes somewhere. With vented dryers this is usually straight into the surrounding area, so it needs to be placed in a well-ventilated room. Otherwise, you'll need to install a venting hose to direct the hot, moist air outside.
• Condenser dryer. Condenser dryers are equipped with heat exchangers that condense the moisture from your clothes into water and either collects it in a reservoir or drains it away. The reservoirs are easily taken out and emptied. While the air that's released into the room from a condenser dryer will still be warm, it won't be moist as it is with vented dryers, so there won't be water dripping down the walls. These dryers tend to be more expensive since ventilation isn't as big an issue.
• Heat pump dryer. A heat pump clothes dryer works similarly to a reverse-cycle air conditioner by recycling the warm air produced by the drying cycle and using it to dry clothes. While they usually have a higher upfront cost, they're also much more energy efficient and less costly to run. Though they tend to take longer to dry clothes than other types, they condense moisture and don't vent warm air at all, so there aren't any ventilation concerns.
• Gas dryer. These work in a similar way to electric clothes dryers but utilise gas as the energy source. Like heat pump dryers, these appliances cost more to buy but are cheaper to run as they use less energy and often heat clothes up faster than most electric dryers. A gas dryer's drum motor and controls are still powered by electricity, although this contributes only 10% of the energy cost. You'll need to have a gas line running to the laundry and the dryer will need to be vented to the outside. However, gas dryers are just starting to become popular in Australia and are only available from a few manufacturers.

Gas dryer vs electric dryer

Gas and electric dryers each have their pros and cons. When deciding on a clothes dryer, consider the needs of your household, the cost efficiency and the features that are most important to you.

Gas dryers cost less to operate over their lifetime and dry clothes faster. However, they're more expensive to buy and you'll probably need to have a gas line installed into your laundry. On the other hand, electric dryers are cheaper to buy and easier to get up and running, but they're usually less energy-efficient and more expensive to run.

Both electric and gas dryers use electricity to spin the drum the clothes are placed in. However, in a gas dryer, gas is used to heat the air and power the fan that blows hot air onto the clothes. A standard gas dryer uses approximately 50% less power per load than an electric dryer.

Additional features to look for

• Delay start. To save energy, this feature will set the dryer to begin its cycle later during off-peak electricity hours. You can also choose to only start a cycle when you're home so you'll be around to remove your laundry in time to avoid creasing your clothes.

• Filters. Since your lint filter must be regularly cleaned in order for your dryer to work properly, it's best to pick a dryer that has the lint filter at the front so it's accessible and can be easily cleaned.
• Reverse tumbling. Ideally, a machine with a reverse tumble function is recommended, as it allows the drum to move in both directions, helping your clothes stay separated and evenly dried.
• Drying rack. If you plan to put in items that you don't want to get tumbled around inside the dryer, a model with a drying rack which can be mounted inside will come in handy.
• Child safety lock. For those with little ones, avoid picking a model that automatically turns on when you shut the dryer door.

5 ways to save money on drying your clothes

1. Air dry your clothes when possible. While it's costly to constantly use a clothes dryer, sunlight is free.
2. Clean the lint filter after every load. Ensure your lint filter isn't blocked as this will prevent air circulating properly through your laundry, meaning your dryer won't work well and can become a fire hazard.
3. Use the highest spin speed. By setting your dryer on its highest spin mode, it will extract more water so you can dry your clothes faster and use less energy.
4. Choose an energy-efficient dryer. If you're a heavy dryer user, it's important to pick an energy-efficient model which will be most budget-friendly. Alternatively, consider a heat pump dryer which has a higher upfront price but costs much less to run in the long term.
5. Open a window. Venting the moisture back into your laundry room will just make your dryer work harder, which will cost you more. Consider venting with your home's ducting or getting a heat pump condenser dryer or condenser that will stop water dripping down your walls and ceiling.

Frequently asked questions

Does a condenser dryer cause mould?

No, condenser dryers do not necessarily cause mould. In fact, a condenser dryer is more efficient than other types of dryers and reduces the amount of moisture in clothes and fabrics.

What is the best type of clothes dryer?

The best type of clothes dryer depends on your needs and preferences. If you are looking for a fast drying process, then a heat pump or condenser dryer is the way to go. If you want to save energy and money, then an electric or gas-powered clothes dryer may be the better choice.

Do condenser dryers take longer than vented dryers?

No, condenser dryers generally take the same amount of time to dry clothes as vented dryers. However, they are more efficient when it comes to reducing moisture in fabrics and clothing. This means that your clothes will be better protected from mould and mildew growth with a condenser dryer than with a vented one.

How much space do you need around a condenser dryer?

It is important to make sure that you provide enough space around your condenser dryer for air circulation. It is recommended to leave at least 6 inches of space on each side and 12 inches at the top and bottom. This will ensure that your dryer can effectively remove moisture from your clothes without any issues.

How long should my clothes take to dry?

The amount of time it takes for your clothes to dry will depend on the type of fabric and the settings you choose. Generally, cotton and other heavier materials take longer to dry than synthetics or blends. You should also consider whether you are using a vented or condenser dryer, as this can affect drying times too. In most cases, your clothes should be dry within an hour or so.

What is the best overall clothes dryer?

We picked the Bosch Serie 4 8kg Heat Pump Tumble Dryer WTH8300AU as the best overall clothes dryer available online.

How do energy star ratings work?

The energy star ratings indicate the energy performance of your appliances, including clothes dryers. The star rating of an appliance is determined by the energy consumption and size of the product. The more stars an appliance has, the more energy efficient it is. The energy label can show up to 10 stars. That means the least energy-efficient appliances have 1 star, while the most efficient can have 10 stars.

How much does it cost to run a clothes dryer?

To get a rough estimate of the cost of running a clothes dryer, divide the kWh indicated on the label by 4. Across Australia, the rates per kWh of electricity range from under 20c to 30c. This means roughly working with 25c is below the middle.

For example, your clothes dryer says it uses 150kWh a year, this roughly translates to $37.50 a year based on typical usage. However, the price may be higher depending on how you use your dryer.

What size clothes dryer should I get?

To find the right dryer size or capacity, consider how often you need to dry your laundry and how big a load you need to dry.

How do I clean my dryer?

Turn off and unplug your dryer before cleaning. Remove the lint trap and vacuum the dryer's interior. Next, wipe any residue from the drum using a damp microfibre cloth. Pull out the dryer to access the vent and clean it. Detach the vent and clear out any debris. Inspect the area before reattaching the vent and reinstalling your dryer.

Make sure to check your user manual to learn more about cleaning your specific clothes dryer.

How much does it cost to have a clothes dryer installed?

According to serviceseeking.com.au, installing a clothes dryer can cost about $45 per hour.

Is a condenser dryer better than a vented dryer?

In terms of energy efficiency, vented dryers are better. They can dry your clothes faster as well. But when it comes to features, condenser dryers have a lot more to offer. Most condenser dryers have a delay start, anti-wrinkle function and fast-drying features.

Can using drying sheets damage my clothes dryer?

The coating of some drying sheets can leave a filmy residue on your dryer's drum. Always check the label to learn more about the proper way to use your drying sheets.

How do I prevent my dryer from over-drying my garments?

Take advantage of your dryer's moisture sensors to avoid your garments from over-drying. You can also sort loads into similar fabrics to prevent over-drying.

When was the dryer invented?

The clothes dryer was invented in 1937 by Henry W. Altorfer.

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